Posted: Saturday, March 22, 2025. 4:04 am CST.
By Horace Palacio: A new diplomatic flashpoint is emerging as the United States considers revoking visas for public officials across the Caribbean who receive medical support from Cuba’s internationally deployed health professionals. Belize, one of several CARICOM countries impacted by this move, has responded with caution.
During a recent virtual meeting with other CARICOM leaders, Prime Minister John Briceño and Foreign Minister Francis Fonseca were briefed on Washington’s position ahead of US Senator Marco Rubio’s regional visit. Rubio has long opposed the presence of Cuban doctors abroad, claiming it amounts to forced labor—a charge Belizean officials push back against.
Health Minister Kevin Bernard avoided confrontation but defended the Cuban doctors’ role in Belize. He acknowledged their long-standing contribution, particularly in rural and underserved communities, stressing that they are paid and live independently. While he did not frame the U.S. stance as an attack on Belize, Bernard emphasized the importance of clarifying the arrangement through diplomatic channels.
The stakes remain high, as a full severance of Cuban medical collaboration could disrupt critical services. Yet, Belize appears committed to navigating the tension diplomatically rather than bowing to pressure, aiming to preserve essential health care while safeguarding foreign relations.
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The post Belize defends Cuban doctors amid U.S. Visa threats appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
A new diplomatic flashpoint is emerging as the United States considers revoking visas for public officials across the Caribbean who receive medical support from Cuba’s internationally deployed health professionals. Belize, one of several CARICOM countries impacted by this move, has responded with caution.
The post Belize defends Cuban doctors amid U.S. Visa threats appeared first on Belize News and Opinion on www.breakingbelizenews.com.
